Long Island Sunset Cocktail Recipe

There’s just something about watching the sky shift colors at the end of the day while you’ve got a cool drink in hand. That’s what made me want to try mixing up a Long Island Sunset Cocktail—a riff on the classic that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

This drink brings together bright citrus, smooth spirits, and a pop of color that honestly reminds me of those summer sunsets.

I love how this cocktail keeps things unfussy but still feels a bit special. You don’t need anything fancy—just some basic ingredients and a few easy steps.

Here’s what you’ll need, how I mix it, and what to expect from that first sip.

Long Island Sunset Cocktail Recipe

The Long Island Sunset really nails that blend of bright fruit juice and smooth spirits for a drink that’s both colorful and layered. I can pull this together at home with just a few common ingredients and some basic bar tools.

Equipment

I keep my setup pretty straightforward so I can whip this up fast. The right tools make it easier to measure, shake, and get those layers just right.

• Cocktail shaker – helps me mix the spirits and juices evenly.
• Jigger – for measuring out each liquor without guessing.
• Bar spoon – makes it easier to layer the blue raspberry syrup for that sunset effect.
• Strainer – keeps the ice out of the glass when I pour.
• Hurricane glass – shows off those color layers nicely.
• Ice scoop or tongs – helps me fill the glass and shaker without melting the ice too quickly.
• Small funnel (optional) – useful if I want to pour the syrup really slowly for sharp layers.

I usually chill my glass ahead of time so the drink stays cold longer.

Ingredients

I use a mix of clear and dark spirits with fruit juices to get both the flavor and that sunset color contrast. Here’s what goes into one serving:

• ½ oz vodka
• ½ oz gin
• ½ oz tequila
• ½ oz triple sec
• ½ oz spiced rum
• 1 oz sour mix
• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz orange juice
• ½ oz cranberry juice
• ½ oz blue raspberry syrup
• Ice cubes (enough to fill both the shaker and the glass)

The blue raspberry syrup settles at the bottom and gives the drink that deep, sunset color, while the fruit juices create the gradient.

Instructions

I start by filling my shaker halfway with ice and then add all the spirits and fruit juices—except the blue raspberry syrup.

• I shake everything for about 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels cold.
• I fill the hurricane glass with fresh ice.
• Then I strain the shaken mix into the glass, leaving a little space at the top.
• I pour the blue raspberry syrup slowly down the side or over a spoon so it sinks to the bottom.
• I let the colors settle for a few seconds and watch the sunset layers form.
• If I’m feeling extra, I’ll garnish with an orange slice or a cherry.

I serve it right away before the ice starts melting and the colors blur together.

Notes

I honestly think using fresh fruit juice makes the drink taste way better—brighter, less syrupy, just fresher overall.

If I’m in the mood for something a bit stronger, I’ll cut back a little on the juice or add a splash more rum. If I want it lighter, sometimes I skip the tequila or just pour in extra orange juice.

Pouring the syrup slowly really matters for the layers. Since it’s heavier, it drops to the bottom and gives you that cool sunset effect.

I like sipping this most on warm evenings when the colors in my glass kind of match the sky outside.

Tasting Notes

That first sip? It’s bright and crisp, almost like a wake-up call. Citrus and cola hit with a quick burst of sweetness, then they slip away, leaving behind a gentle tang.

I can tell the vodka, rum, and tequila are all working together—nobody’s trying to steal the show. There’s a light warmth that hangs around at the back of my throat, but it never turns harsh.

A splash of orange juice sneaks in a soft fruit note. It helps smooth out the stronger flavors, and honestly, the sunset color makes the drink look pretty inviting.

When I swirl the glass, I catch this faint aroma—lemon and cola, mostly. It brings back memories of summer evenings by the beach, honestly.

The texture stays smooth, with just a hint of fizz. I appreciate how the ice keeps everything cool, and the flavors stay balanced all the way through.